The Rise of AzkovalChapter 59 A Lack of Diplomacy
- 2 years ago
- 15
- 0
Chapter Introduction
Stephen Appleyard leads a powerful expeditionary force to Moscow but can a well chosen word more achieve more than an army?
Rules of Encounter
Neither Grantby nor Ackroyd has ever been to such a hotel. Neither of them. The opulence. The extravagance. The scale. The grandeur — and also the people. Many seem relatively young, younger than either of the policemen. How had they acquired such wealth to be at home in such a hotel at such a modest age?
The two glance at one another as they are swept along by the urbane Stephen Appleyard.
“Our table is reserved for 13:00, but I thought it might be helpful if we took up the table early and spent a moment or two setting out our tactics?”
“There’s going to be tactics, then?” asks Ackroyd.
“Oh absolutely. In diplomacy, there are always tactics. Now ... ah...”
They arrive at the restaurant and Appleyard wastes no time in securing the attention of the Maître d’.
The restaurant is incongruously called The Tattler Club. The name reminds Grantby of some of the more seedy establishments in London’s racy but also vulgar Soho district. The name may spark dreary memories, but the restaurant itself does not. It is a large space with tables on two levels, on the main floor and in a gallery. Graceful white classical columns march across, dividing the space into three: a nave and two aisles. The décor is white, contrasting with the dark mahogany of the tables. To one side, the windows afford a view of the Moskva River. A large modern chandelier dominates the central nave. On the opposite side, the tables are somehow more discreet and less public.
“Good afternoon. Stephen Appleyard, Colin Grantby and Brian Ackroyd. We have a table for five. There will be a further two guests joining us at 13:00.”
The Maître d’ glances nervously at his watch, which confirms that Mr Appleyard and two of his party are early. He smiles and says, “Your dining room is almost ready, sir. Let me...”
Appleyard does not even break step. “Private dining room, you say?”
“Of course, sir. Please accompany me...”
“A private dining room is not acceptable. We prefer the restaurant.”
The restaurant? The Maître d’ has been warned about the identity of the two remaining guests and also knows that the security services like discretion when they are out on business in public — at least, the business that might bring them out in public to a restaurant in a hotel. The Maître d’ is in a corner. He has no instructions in the event that Appleyard and his party would not accept the facilities carefully selected for them. Is the restaurant ready? Is there a suitable table? He decides to trust that all will be well and makes a decision.
“Of course. Please come with me.”
The trio are shown to a table in one corner of the restaurant, discreet but with a view of the room. The table sits beneath a large modern picture. It is hard to tell if it is a photograph or a picture created with photographic realism. The rendering technique of the image may be in doubt but the subject is not: an elegant nude female draped over a piano wearing only a pair of black shiny sling-back heels and a black top hat.
Ackroyd glances at the picture and looks at Grantby.
Appleyard scrutinises the table offered. “No,” he says after a moment or two. “This is still not acceptable. We prefer the centre of the restaurant.”
“The centre?”
“Yes, the centre.”
“I think the tables there are taken.”
Appleyard is not prepared to be deflected. He moves to a table in the centre.
“We are first. The restaurant is quiet. Tables in the centre of the room are unoccupied. This will be very satisfactory. Please, Colin. Brian. Sit down.”
Faced with the three patrons seated and apparently comfortable, the Maître d’ decides that, at the moment, the best thing to do will be to leave them at their chosen place but to keep the table at the side free, to keep at least some options open. He leaves them alone for the present but with the promise of aperitifs.
“One should always try to choose the field of battle, don’t you think?” says Appleyard, with the air of a statement rather than an enquiry.
“Now,” he continues, “we are here to negotiate. This is a public location and I wish to conduct the negotiations in public. We are going to extract compensation from our Russian friends for the inconvenience and disadvantage to the British State and on behalf of one of its citizens.”
“Compensation?” says Grantby, uneasily.
“Precisely. Compensation. My dear Grantby, there is no prospect in hell of extracting Kustensky from the embrace of Mother Russia for him to stand conventional trial in the United Kingdom. You and Brian are here to witness our Russian friends pay up and, in paying up, they will in some measure acknowledge responsibility.”
“This is very unsatisfactory, Mr Appleyard.”
“Well, is it? There may be no public humiliation but, in this way, I believe there will come restoration. In any case, if we were able to send Kustensky to prison, think what further expense the British taxpayer would be put to, to keep him there. I think they have spent enough money already, don’t you?”
Ackroyd replies: “Yes, but a guilty verdict demonstrates that certain standards are maintained. It shows that no one is above the law. It shows that rules of conduct are of more value than money or any other sort of ‘compensation.’”
“I agree, but such a process must be attainable and, in the circumstances we find ourselves, I just do not think that it is. That is the lesson of recent history. However, I do think that loss of blood can be staunched, a wound closed, and some level of repair can be achieved. Yet, I agree, it will not be perfect and there will always be a scar.
“And who is paying for lunch if we are now worrying about cash?”
“The Foreign Office, but we are setting a sprat to catch a mackerel.
“Now, as to lunch. This is a ‘business lunch, ‘ which is a sort of new concept in Russia. It would be normal to have an appetiser, then soup, then a main course of meat or fish, and then dessert with tea or coffee. We need to keep our wits about us, so I suggest we all choose a salad as first course, a vegetable soup to follow, and then fish or steak for mains. The Russians are great tea-drinkers just like us, so I will propose tea at that point. Agreed?”
“Maybe,” says Grantby, carefully. “How do you know the Russians are prepared even to think about negotiating? I have to say that it is not hard to imagine us being packed off back to London with nothing.”
“That’s a good point and you are quite right. I do not know how far we will get. On the other hand, I have a diplomatic passport and you two have had to apply for visas — which you received. That means the Russians know who you are. They will also know you are closely connected with the McEwan investigation. If they are not prepared to enter into any sort of dialogue whatsoever, it would be easy to send a very strong signal to that effect by merely refusing your visa applications. They have not refused. We are here in Moscow. They know exactly why. I think they want to deal. I think there is a chance of progress.”
Ackroyd notices that two other men are being ushered across the restaurant towards them by the anxious Maître d’.
One is tall and fit-looking. Erect, strong and unmistakably handsome. He walks behind. The other is older, smaller, wearing his elegant clothes with just a touch less accomplishment and panache. He looks like someone who has come to refinement and affluence rather later in life. He walks in front. He also does not look particularly happy.
It is the smaller man whom Appleyard greets warmly.
“Mikhail Barysovitch! So nice to see you again! How is Daria Ilyinichna and ... forgive me ... your daughter? Polina?”
“Ha, you remembered? They are well, thank you.”
“Mikhail Barysovitch, allow me to introduce Colin Grantby and Brian Ackroyd, colleagues from London.”
Mikhail smiles and nods and in his turn introduces the handsome man. He says “And my companion today is, of course, Anatoly Sergeyevitch Kustensky.” For just a moment, the policemen are wrong-footed. Anatoly is not what they expected. He is not an over-weight, over-dressed crime boss wearing too much jewellery, but looks like someone you would be pleased to sit next to on an aircraft or have as a neighbour, across the fence at home. Very much so. He smiles in a perfectly calm and relaxed way, shaking hands with Appleyard, Grantby and Ackroyd. Grantby is used to plausible villains and returns Anatoly’s smile with a serious frown. Ackroyd is used to less refined miscreants and finds himself returning Anatoly’s smile with a smile of his own.
Appleyard, now the pleasantries are over, says, “Shall we all sit? I am told lunch here is very good. I have ordered champagne to begin. Pol Roger, from France. Please forgive me, Mikhail, but ‘Sovyetskoye’ (1) was always rather too sweet for me.
“I thought we could talk in a more relaxed way over tea and coffee afterwards? Ah, and here are the menus.”
Ackroyd is for a moment completely fazed by the swirling Cyrillic. The “Times New Roman” font conspires to make it look yet more alien — and then he is reassured to see an English translation beneath. He follows the lead given by Appleyard who chooses Caesar Salad with shrimp, followed by cream of cauliflower soup with tempura artichoke and, for his main course, black cod and honey marinade. (2)
The New Diplomacy
The meal proceeds, peppered by small talk and the remembrance of times past from Appleyard and Antonov. Anatoly, to the surprise of Grantby and Ackroyd, proves to be affable and knowledgeable about Britain and British institutions, even cricket, but presently the meal is over...
“Well, gentlemen,” Appleyard begins, “I am hoping that, together and with good will, we can resolve a tricky situation. Let us all introduce ourselves and break the ice, so to speak, and to confirm who is who. I am Stephen Appleyard, British Foreign Office.” Appleyard then turns to Grantby.
“Detective Chief Inspector Colin Grantby, Serious Organised Crime Directorate, Metropolitan Police, London.”
“Inspector Brian Ackroyd, Criminal Investigation Division, Worcestershire Constabulary.”
Anatoly, the handsome man, came to be seated beside Ackroyd. He had noticed that he was not introduced originally by Mikhail Barysovitch and had wondered if the negotiations would take place between Mikhail and the British diplomat Appleyard, with the three remaining, including himself, as “observers.” With this simple device, Appleyard had brought them all onto the stage and given each one a speaking part.
“Anatoly Sergeyevitch Kustensky, Group Chief Executive, Anatoly Kustensky Enterprises.”
“Mikhail Barysovitch Antonov, Russian Federal Security Service.”
Appleyard is speaking again: “I often find, with ‘situations, ‘ it is a question of seeing matters in the right light, from a helpful perspective? Today, I suggest we deal with the problem of unpaid wages and perhaps agree on suitable consultancy and transfer fees for staff unexpectedly moved between employers?”
Whilst Ackroyd seems completely puzzled at whatever it is that Appleyard is talking about, Grantby finds himself smiling broadly at Appleyard’s sophistry. This, he supposes, this is diplomacy in action. The description of events in such a way that all the parties can be at ease and are able to make a resolution of the problem. Abduction and slavery represented as an unexpected secondment of staff and unpaid wages. He wants to laugh out loud but the urge passes as he pays attention to the landscape Appleyard is creating.
“ ... so I was saying. The British Government is keen to see British academics work at prestigious institutions abroad and we recognise Moscow State University as an out-standing international institution. Anyone who has worked and studied there has every right to be proud of his, or her, achievement. We also understand that opportunities may arise unexpectedly, out of the blue, so to speak?
“I was searching for a precedent we might all know and understand and I thought of football and the transfer of players between teams. The clubs have to agree to a transfer fee or, in this case, a loan fee. I expect this happens just the same way in Russia. Don’t you agree, Mikhail?
“Now, concerning the transfer I had in mind, when Mrs Jennifer McEwan left the University of Warwick for MSU, I don’t think there were any contractual arrangements made beforehand, so we will have to look at the situation ourselves and agree a suitable fee...”
“Mrs Jennifer McEwan. Excuse me, but who is this?” interjects Mikhail. “I do not believe we have spoken of or encountered her before.”
“That is correct, Mikhail, but it is really a matter of attribution. The Russian State and MSU and, in particular, Anatoly Sergeyevitch here are aware of Vyera Anatolyevna Kuznetsova.”
“We have established, beyond reasonable doubt,” says Grantby, his slow deliberate policeman’s voice cutting across the machinations, “that Jennifer Karin McEwan is Vyera Anatolyevna Kuznetsova and that Miss Kuznetsova is Mrs McEwan.
“There are two reasons. First, a friend and colleague of Mrs McEwan identified work published in a Russian technical journal which cited VA Kuznetsova as author. This was work definitely written by Jennifer McEwan, and her colleague was definite because she had a copy of exactly the same work done by Mrs McEwan when she was working at the University of Warwick.
“Second, in July this year, a motor boat called the Andrei Tupolev — which I believe you own, Mr Kustensky — left the port of Stockholm...
“It is a yacht! The Tupolev is a yacht, “ says Anatoly, for clarification
Grantby slowly clears his throat and re-commences his recitation of the evidence: “The Swedish Coast Guard have a list — which I have seen — of the crew and passengers travelling on the Tupolev. The arrival list and the departure list both say that you and Vyera Kuznetsova arrived and left on the Tupolev. Afterwards, Jennifer McEwan — as identified by her husband and parents — swam ashore from Stockholm Harbour after an absence of almost two years.
“We conclude that Jennifer McEwan is Vyera Anatolyevna Kuznetsova and that she had come from your ... er... yacht.”
“As I understand matters,” interjects Mikhail, “you are talking about a rather junior member of staff, so any loan fee would be modest, if there was one at all. Also, academics move between institutions. If Jennifer is Vyera, what reason is there to prevent her from accepting an offer of a position at MSU, which I must add is a far more prestigious institution than the University of ... where did you say?... Warwick?”
“Well, you would think so,” Appleyard replies, smoothly, “but the main issue for the British Government is the unexpected — I could say peremptory — nature of the transfer. This is the main issue for us. If there had been the normal negotiations, I agree that we would be talking about quite modest sums, perhaps no sums at all, but matters were handled completely outside the normal framework.”
“We are saying that Mrs McEwan was abducted by Mr Kustensky and his agents,” says Ackroyd, to make the position clear.
“Abducted?” echoes Mikhail. “Abducted? Why on earth would anyone involved with MSU or AKE want to abduct a British academic? Why, even in the Stalin period, the Soviet State did not abduct foreign academics, nor during the cold war did the Soviet Government abduct scientists or technicians working on sensitive projects! What is Mrs McEwan’s area of expertise and what was she working on?”
“She is a psychologist writing a doctorate thesis,” replies Grantby.
“On what?”
“On how adult sexual play behaviour affects how adults handle stress.”
Mikhail continues. “So, not research on aerodynamics? Munitions? Submarine nuclear reactors? Cyber warfare? Nuclear weapons? Germ and Chemical Warfare. Not on any of these which a military power like the Russian Republic might have an interest in but in fact she is studying adult sexual behaviour?”
By now, Mikhail Barysovitch and Anatoly Sergeyevitch are both smiling broadly and they chuckle as Mikhail goes through his list of the sort of technical knowledge it might be worth staging a kidnap to find out more about.
Anatoly picks up the thread, to drive their argument home.
“Nowadays in Russia, we have the internet, which is not censored as regards sexual material. We now know as much as you do in the West, so why do we need to stage a kidnap to discover more?”
When Grantby had made the accusation to the two Russians and had quoted the evidence which supported the contention, Ackroyd felt Grantby had made a strong case but, in the wake of the Russians’ reaction, Ackroyd begins to see how unlikely the idea could look in a court of law being tested by a clever advocate in front of a neutral jury.
Appleyard easily picks up the negotiation once more. “Thank you, Mikhail, and that is exactly what we would like to know: why was Mrs McEwan abducted? Some interesting facts have emerged. Mrs McEwan’s research supervisor was Professor Angela Dawney. Mrs McEwan’s research project was first proposed by Dr Igor Mendeleyev. Professor Dawney is well-acquainted with Dr Mendeleyev. We wonder if Mrs McEwan was used as an experimental animal to test a protocol, devised by Dr Mendeleyev, for the psychological conditioning of people who are in some ways vulnerable to it, and then goodness knows what they might be programmed to do?
Grantby notices that the mention of Dr Mendeleyev has a curious effect on Mikhail Antonov. His eyes and his lips tighten. He places his teaspoon rather noisily down on his saucer. Mikhail Antonov says “I hope we are not here to put right the unexpected consequences of Dr Mendeleyev’s futilities?”
It occurs to Grantby that this is quite a different evaluation of Dr Mendeleyev from the one recently given by Dr Elmer.
Appleyard continues, “You might remember, in South Africa there was a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to try to heal wounds between the various communities as an alternative to the legal process. I think that might a good example for us to follow?”
“But what would be our interest in accepting this proposal?” asks Mikhail recovering his composure.
“As I understand the position,” Anatoly says, “there are some events which are obviously criminal, such as bank robbery or murder. There are other events which are not. You mention ‘abduction.’ If there is no complaint, surely there is no crime? Has Mrs McEwan made a complaint against anyone?”
“Anatoly Sergeyevitch, I think we both know that she has not — so far. Meanwhile, we have some very awkward circumstances to deal with and some very curious happenings we would like to have explained. Our interest is to resolve matters. On the other hand, your interest is to be free to conduct your business in the UK, the EU, and other nations allied to us, specifically the US and Canada,” replies Appleyard.
“I am authorised, on behalf of the British Government, to tell you that legal proceedings will not be taken forward if we can agree to suitable terms of compensation and if satisfactory explanations of certain events can be given — unless, of course, Mrs McEwan starts to make complaints about you.”
“We are always happy to help our British friends if circumstances allow,” responds Mikhail cautiously, “but, of course, we would expect that there would be no friends of our British friends, waiting in the wings, poised to make trouble themselves?”
“Agreed,” responds Appleyard, “and I can say that there are no other parties waiting in the wings to make trouble or take out proceedings against Mr Kustensky that we know of.”
Mikhail continues, “but we are still not happy about simply accepting your suggestion that Mrs McEwan was abducted. We agree that the project she worked on was originally thought of by II Mendeleyev, who is a senior academic at MSU. We also agree that Mendeleyev is known to Professor Dawney. We categorically reject the notion that Mrs McEwan was used as an experimental animal to test any kind of military protocol. Also, I think it is beyond dispute that Mrs McEwan had a much higher degree of support from academic colleagues when she was at MSU than she had when she was at Warwick. And, in addition, any assurance from the British Government shall have to be in writing, not merely a verbal assurance.”
Anatoly sits back in his chair and sucks thoughtfully on his lower lip. Without anyone else around the table moving their chairs, he seems to have taken centre stage.
What would his father, the General, the Heroic Soldier, the Hero of the Soviet Union, what would he do now? Reflecting, Anatoly knows that his father would have been ruthless in Stockholm, but he was fighting a war; Anatoly was looking after his own interests. All events cast shadows into the future, sometimes short, sometimes long, and the results of any decision, ruthless or gentle, can be very hard to anticipate.
He says, “My daughter spent time as a student at the London School of Economics. Towards the end of her time in London, she herself was abducted. I was able to discover who her abductors were and I was able to conduct successful negotiations for her return. It seemed that my daughter had been mistaken for someone else.”
“You did tell the police at the time?” asks Grantby.
“No, I did not. I thought it might be better to deal direct.”
“That was a very unhelpful decision, Mr Kustensky, if I may say, because you have left these criminal elements free to cause more trouble and no doubt more distress to other families.”
“Yes, Mr Grantby, I agree that it was not a good decision but, at the time, I felt it was correct.
“Some time after, an old friend of mine met me for dinner in Moscow. She was at an academic conference. She told me that she had been arrested and interrogated by the CIA and that the CIA were particularly interested in me. I understood that one of her research students, a Mrs Jennifer McEwan, was also arrested and interrogated.”
“And would this friend be Professor Angela Dawney?” asks Grantby.
“May I go on?”
“Of course, Mr Kustensky, please go on.”
“I was formerly an officer in the Soviet KGB and I am fully aware of the methods used by the CIA. Angela’s account of her ordeal did not sound like the CIA, but it sounded very much more like the organisation which had abducted my own daughter, so I became... concerned ... for the safety of my family and, of course, myself when we travelled abroad. It seemed prudent to arrange for Mrs McEwan to have the opportunity to complete her research in safety in Moscow and for us to discover more about what was going on.”
Both Grantby and Ackroyd sit back in their chairs and then glance at one another. The curious case of the “CIA interrogation” had raised its head once more. How critical this event had proven! Once Clegg had decided to indulge in amateur dramatics to find out if Kustensky was interested in Inward Bound, the ball did not stop rolling until Jennifer McEwan, the innocent party, had been abducted into slavery. Finally, they had an explanation for it. At least one mystery had been solved.
“I see,” says Grantby after some moments, “but the important point for me as a police officer is to know whether Mrs McEwan was at liberty when she left the UK, when she was living in Russia, and when she made her journey to Stockholm?”
Anatoly replies. “Mrs McEwan has returned to her family. She also has another language, has citizenship of another country, and has a PhD degree. I do not think you can say that Mrs McEwan has returned home empty-handed and those accomplishments do not make her sound like a victim of an abduction to me.”
Anatoly’s response is a politician’s answer, not the accurate reply a policeman would want, but before Grantby or Ackroyd can begin again, Mikhail Barysovitch joins in.
“Mrs McEwan was given citizenship very shortly after her arrival in Russia. It is for the Russian State to protect and to look after the interests of its own citizens when they are in Russia. In the circumstances, I do not understand why the British State has an interest in the welfare of one of our own citizens?”
Stephen Appleyard replies. “Mikhail Barysovitch, you and Anatoly Sergeyevitch have described events from interesting perspectives; you have spoken of the responsibility of the state to its citizens and he has spoken of the nature of the interpersonal relationships Mrs McEwan enjoyed when she was here. From my perspective, I am unable to accept your proposal without more knowledge of exactly why and perhaps how citizenship was offered to Mrs McEwan and to have her corroboration of the description you have given.
“But, let me suggest a way of approaching this. AKE is a civil engineering concern active in both of our countries. Jennifer McEwan was apparently sponsored by AKE. Coincidentally, certain building works are needed at our Moscow Embassy. Perhaps AKE would be able to contribute to the financing of the project? As a recognition of the hospitality given to their activity in the UK and as compensation for the absent contractual arrangements? I suggest we start thinking at five million pounds?”
“Five million pounds? That is far too much. It is grotesque,” replies Mikhail, “even David Beckham would not be as expensive.”
“That is where I have to disagree,” counters Appleyard. “When someone of the stature of Beckham is involved, five million pounds is well within the envelope of negotiation. However, in Beckham’s case, there would have been careful exploratory talks beforehand. Here — well, quite frankly, no one has been able to show me what the original contract was, so I am tempted to think that proper contractual negotiations were never conducted. In those circumstances, there is less constraint on negotiations. We think, bearing in mind your desire for continuing hospitality for AKE in the UK as well as in and Canada and in the United States, with all this in mind, we think five million pounds may be too modest!”
Mikhail Barysovitch replies: “I cannot see how the Russian Government could be seen to or would wish to provide five million pounds. We would cut a very awkward figure on the world stage. What sort of precedent would this set for us? This figure of yours almost sounds like punitive damages. Anatoly Sergeyevitch has said earlier that Mrs McEwan returned to Great Britain with a new language, a new citizenship, a university doctorate, and in peak physical condition; in other words, she is beautiful. You will have to make a more realistic proposal if these negotiations are to progress.”
“I think we have moved on from the Eighteenth Century and the world of Count Sheremetev,” replies Appleyard (3) “and, perhaps I should mention for the benefit of Colin and Brian that Count Nicolai Petrovitch Sheremetev was a Russian aristocrat and opera buff who would take the children of his serfs if they were beautiful and talented and give them an education and training, to appear in his opera productions.
“This reminds me strongly of Mrs McEwan’s adventures in Russia, except in her case it was a citizenship, a new language, and a PhD instead of a place in the opera chorus? What is it that the French say about this? Everything is different but nothing has changed?”
The history lesson over, Appleyard continues: “But did I mention a contribution from the Russian Government? As far as I understand, the Russian Government had no part in the arrangements made for Mrs McEwan. I propose that the resolution should come from AKE. Part of the negotiation is to deal with the British Government interest on behalf of one of its citizens and part is to provide tangible compensation to the McEwans.”
“Ah,” replies Mikhail, “ah well, in that case ... yes, in that case I can see that progress might be possible. A commercial organisation such as AKE which has an excellent reputation would not like to be seen to be involved in irregular contractual arrangements and I believe that in commercial, the financial settlement for a contract may mature after the contract has ended.”
At this point, Anatoly begins to wonder if the diplomat Appleyard and Mikhail Barysovitch (who are quite clearly well-acquainted with each other) have rehearsed the negotiation first, between themselves, and Mikhail is happy to see Anatoly paying large sums of money to the British and to Vyera herself as a punishment for letting Vyera escape from his custody in the first place. If this was true, he would make sure that Pavea, the American girl, would be kept on a very short strong leash so lightning could not strike twice in the same place!
“Thank you Mikhail, that is my understanding too, which is why I suggest that AKE may wish to make a donation to repay hospitality? In those circumstances, the financial payments made will seem to be completely understandable and nothing will be out of place,”
Canopus In Paradise “Freddie! Ellie! So good to see you again, safe and sound.” “And you, Steve,” replies Ellie. “For your information, Steve, at the moment, we are Gordon Firth and Kristen Keller. He is British. I am German.” “OK, that’s good, really good. Did you have any trouble setting that up?” “Not really,” Freddie replies. “I had an inkling that a tactical retreat might be needed one day, so we have had these ready for some time. Others, too, in Bank safety deposit boxes in various...
Chapter Introduction There is good news for Joe and Jenny, an anxious day for some Senior Officers of the Metropolitan Police, an interesting moment as Stephen Appleyard pulls another rabbit out of his hat and a sober reflection from Chief Inspector Grantby about the purpose of policing. Jigsaw It’s a good day for Joseph and Jennifer McEwan! Today, two letters arrived in the post. One told them that their Insurers were prepared to honour their home and contents insurance policy. It means...
In Warwick, Detective Inspector Ackroyd attempts to trace a mysterious telephone call Jennifer made one afternoon when she became disorientated and lost in Birmingham. Dr Elba Intervenes Corinne is in her office contemplating the view across the gardens. It looks beautiful, even on a late autumn day. She is thinking how fortunate she has been to be able to practice her academic training (psychology) and indulge her sexual interests (BDSM), to work with friends and congenial partners in the...
This week’s show begins with that same old rusty bedstead, and that same old dirty mattress. Pausing to take in the magnificent filthiness of it, then pulling back to reveal the bare concrete floor around it, and to take in the harsh lighting. And then we hear our guest of the week approaching, quick little footsteps ... Light clicks on the studio floor. We pan round to see what we’ve got this week and see a slight, pale, small-boobed lady walking in quick, short strides ... She’s not is a...
‘Excuse me can I slide in here?’ I said to no one in particular among the throng of people mingling in one of the less dense areas of the overcrowded bar. I said it so as to try and not piss off that one person who may have managed to get enough drinks to get drunk. Me, I couldn’t get my first beer, but I did find that one drunk. ‘Hey asshole you trying to get in between me and my girl?’ ‘Hun?’ I turned around and looked in the direction of the voice then up. Then up so more. The guy looked...
1 THE SHIPPING FORECAST The time is 05:15am. Freddie Clegg and Ellie are asleep in the early morning in their flat in London.Freddie has always had the habit of waking early, something left over from his army career. That was years ago, but habits once formed are hard to shake.There is a soft click as the bedside clock-radio switches on. Freddie keeps the volume low, to leave Ellie undisturbed. In the soft and dreamy country between sleep and wakefulness, he hears the hypnotic recitation of...
1 THE SHIPPING FORECAST The time is 05:15am. Freddie Clegg and Ellie are asleep in the early morning in their flat in London.Freddie has always had the habit of waking early, something left over from his army career. That was years ago, but habits once formed are hard to shake.There is a soft click as the bedside clock-radio switches on. Freddie keeps the volume low, to leave Ellie undisturbed. In the soft and dreamy country between sleep and wakefulness, he hears the hypnotic recitation of...
Unsolicited Caller Joe is at his desk when his mobile rings. The screen announces an 02 number he does not recognise. Joe sighs. He has had a rash of marketing calls recently of the “Hi, according to our records you were involved in a road traffic accident recently. Text YES to this number to discuss applying for compensation” variety. Ironically, Joe has suffered a major trauma in his life which has left him injured, and his wife even more so, but there is no compensation on offer for...
Radio Astronomy Eva Smith is a Case Officer working for MI6, now officially referred to as The Secret Intelligence Service, the part of the British government security apparatus which collects secret information from abroad to further the welfare and safety of the United Kingdom and its citizens. (1) Eva works under the supervision of the Director of Operations and her present task is to provide further information to assist enquiries begun by the Metropolitan Police and her colleagues at...
At Scotland Yard, the Metropolitan Police hold a case conference into the Jennifer McEwan disappearance. Has a crime been committed or did Jennifer merely take time out from difficult circumstances at home and at work? In London’s East End, the Directors of Canopus ImpEx think about what the future might hold for the company... Maskirovka? Anatoly is having coffee when Igor Mendeleyev’s call is put through to him. He is at the AKE Headquarters building, occupying several floors in one of...
In Warwick, Jennifer McEwan receives a letter from Corinne Aimes the CEO of the Adult Experience Company Inward Bound to say how pleased they are to hear that she is back safe and well and to inviting her to visit. In Edgebaston, Jennifer has another session with Dr Laura Malvern, the trauma psychologist helping her to come to terms with her recent history. Jennifer may be safe but is she well? In Moscow As Anatoly strides purposefully thought the streets, the rhythm of his steps and the...
In this chapter, when Jennifer was Vyera, in Moscow, she met Tracy, another abductee being held as security against her father’s un-paid business debts. Petra Tennerby the Randolf Corporation enforcer, is closing in on Jennifer McEwan. Jennifer is the girl who came back. Has she information which could help locate Tracy? Guderian at Dunkirk In a quiet moment during his office day, Anatoly picks up the Vyera file and reads. He reviews the resume of the telephone calls and email traffic. He...
Hospitality “Look, why don’t you stay over. We’ve got a double room that is not occupied tonight. It’s a long drive and, Jenny, you must be feeling exhausted. None of this can have been easy for you — and you can have dinner with us?” Jenny looks around to Joe. He can tell she’d like to stay. He’s not so sure that he wants to spend any more time here than is absolutely necessary, but it is going to be very late by the time they get home if they start the journey now, and if it helps Jenny...
A Decision. Joe is at work and Jenny is at home. At home, but not un-occupied. She is no longer quite so obsessed with housework, no longer quite so much in the grip of the mind-set she had at the Dacha. Today, she has made Joe’s breakfast, and something for him to have at lunch-time and then ... and then she has sat herself in a comfortable chair in their lounge and is listening to music. To Sibelius. She enjoys the pictures it conjures in her mind, in sound. She finds it easy to imagine...
As Freddie and Ellie Clegg advance their plans to retire and transfer the human and digital assets of Canopus ImpEx to a safer location, Dr Pam Jordan, one of their most trusted and valuable colleagues begins to have problems of her own. Bed Mates Dr Pam Jordan rolls over in bed and feels the slim, beautifully muscled body of her slave, Sukie, lying asleep and still beside her. Sukie was originally abducted and trained by the American slaver, Steve Glennis. She accompanied him to the UK...
Chapter Introduction. In which Harry goes east, Larry goes west, Sarah goes south and Rachel goes to Holloway. The Foreign Office Calls In the late afternoon, Chief Inspector Grantby’s extension rings. “Grantby?” he growls into the telephone. “Chief Inspector? It’s Michael Appleyard here, from the Foreign Office. I got your message earlier — about contacts made to someone here, after Mrs McEwan disappeared, well disappeared for the first time — and I am pleased to say that it was one of...
Introduction. The shape of continents is wrought by the inexorable progress of tectonic plates across the surface of the earth and is there anything that can stand in their way, divert their course or survive their movements? Well... In Moscow, Anatoly cannot find sleep until he takes practical steps to bring Vyera back home In London, Annie Elba – the Met’s forensic psychologist – wrestles to understand the progress Jenny has made under the care of the trauma psychologist, Dr Laura...
Professor Angela Dawney is at work in her office sifting through a pile of incoming mail. There are various notices from the University Administration and University Admissions departments (brown envelopes), some copies of the academic journals she has personal subscriptions to (large heavy envelopes), a manuscript of a technical article for review (A4 white envelope), an acknowledgment card for a gift Angela sent to her office cleaner who was married recently (small envelope), and finally a...
Chapter Introduction Petra takes simultaneous initiatives in London and Warwick, Joe has some new and completely unexpected experiences, Jenny is given encouragement from an old acquaintance, and Manfred Randolf receives a surprise invitation. The Overseer In London, Petra Tennerby places a call to Manfred Randolf. She is using the Virgin pre-paid cell phone he gave her. The days are slipping by without much more progress in the case. The New Year had come and Petra feels as if she is...
Chapter Introduction Anatoly and Neena, Manfred and Petra contend over the fate of Tracy but when Tracy joins in the game later, does she realise that she is playing with a loaded die? Slave Market Neena had never realized that Edinburgh was such a city of mountains and spires, classical buildings, temples, elegant domes, broad streets and distant views of an eastern sea. She and the Kustenskies are staying in an imposing wedding cake of a hotel, all columns and baroque gables and, rising...
Chapter Introduction In London, Tracy falls into the trap set by Petra and her Father; Jennifer and Joe enjoy a chance meeting over lunch; Angela Dawney moves up Scott Anderson’s agenda; and Jennifer gains a new perspective on some past events. The Uninvited Guest We are back in London. Joe has been to University College Hospital again for a review with the surgeons who cared for him after he was assaulted. Of course, it’s good to have their expertise but every examination just means that...
Chapter Introduction Joe receives an invitation for Interview — and is asked to do something that girls like. An Invitation In Italy, the cult of the individual has not taken root as it has in many western countries. In Italy, the family remains an important institution, and especially so when the question of employment in a family firm is posed, even in a large firm operating internationally. There are others, too, who understand the importance of a suitable introduction. Pietro Cassini...
Indru tamil kama kathaiyil ilamaiyaana magalum pinbu vithavai ammavaiyum eppadi usar seithu matter poten endru ungaluku solugiren. Suvarasiyam athigam irukum kama kathaikul selalam vaarungal, en peyar karthik. En veethiiyil oru pen ilamaiyaaga sexiyaaga irupaal, avalai thinamum sight adithu kondu irupen. Thinamum aval kalluri sendru varum pozhuthu iru velaiyilum sight adika arambithu viduven. Aval peyar nandhini vayathu 21 irukum, avaluku veetil aan thunai kidaiyaathu. Veetil oru amma iru...
Late that winter the King took ill. He became congested with fever and fell into a coma. This was not the only time this occurred. Burning fever wracked his body, chills with violent coughing attacks frightened the Queen and Princess. As before, the King's bed was carried down to the throne room to be placed in front of a huge roaring fire to keep him warm. His only food intake was broth and spiced wine. The spice being purchased by traders who came every spring and summer to sell their...
I got up and opened the door, only to get jumped by a young bundle of effusive boy enthusiasm. I held him awkwardly while hugging Brooke and Rebecca hello, and then I motioned Suzy over to me. She was still reticent, but she came eagerly enough and I dropped to the floor to rough house with them both. Suzy was still hesitant, but once she figured out I wouldn't break or get upset, she finally began to enjoy herself. "Can we finally play some catch, Alex?" Josh eagerly asked me. "I've...
“This is it,” Jules said, “are you ready?” Zuki was walking beside him as they made their way along the torus, clad in her sharp suit, her camouflaged cloak draped across her shoulders. She was wearing her sunglasses, as it was morning, and the sunlamps were lit. They were making their way to the nearest spoke that would take them to the central hub of the station, where the council would soon be in session. “I’m ready,” she replied, holding her head up confidently as they strode through...
Well, I know a lot you guys don?t find Janeway hot and sexy but I happen to do ?Well, I know a lot you guys don?t find Janeway hot and sexy but I happen to do. Well when I was a younger man and she was younger. But I still find her kind of sexy for a mature woman. So sue me for using my talent to have a little fun with what I consider a hot older babe. I enjoyed writing it. How you enjoy reading it.???????????????????????????????? ??? ??????????????? CAPTAIN JANEWAY CAPTAIN?S...
Note : This story is completely fictional!In nineteen forty six Thelma Lou Anderson was married with three kids. Linda was the oldest. She was sixteen. Guy and George was ten and Guy seven. Thelma owned a beauty shop in Kansas City. She suspected her husband Lawerance was cheating on her again. She followed him one day when he thought she was at work and saw him go into a house. A woman opened the door and he went in. That was all the proof she needed. She went home and packed her suitcase and...
IncestMother Ethel always enjoyed the short walk to the train station. It was beautiful Autumnal morning and Mother Ethel took the opportunity to walk to the train station as she knew that she had a very busy day ahead. Those that saw Mother Ethel along the way bowed reverently,they knew that Mother Ethel was a Nun of the Monastery of Repentance and when a Nun or a Monk walked past it was polite to bow, for many knew what the Nun's and Monk's of the Monastery were capable of. As Mother Ethel strolled...
Dot, Dorothea, and Dick Chapter One Dear sister: I found this letter among some others, scrolled up and tied with purple ribbon, in a chest belonging to our great grandfather. The name Charles has belonged to several in our family line, but I believe I know the one who received and saved this letter, and kept it preserved for so many years. I believe the letter speaks for itself, so I will now offer it up to you. Dearest Charles: I hope this missive finds you in such good...
Our Last Day of School. I can’t believe it. This is my last day of school, I thought, not sure how I felt now that the long awaited day was here. Stepping out into the beautiful sunny afternoon, heading toward the group of waiting yellow school buses I breathed a sigh of relief. I was glad school was finished. Throughout High School like a ship at sea, I had plotted my course, studying hard. However, the Scholarship that many felt I had rightfully won had somehow ended up going to one of...
“What’s wrong? What’s wrong?”Anthea looked up at her mum as she sat down at the dining table. “Nothing is wrong,” Anthea responded watching as her mum hurriedly dried her hands with a tea towel.“Is the baby okay? Are you okay? Is Jack okay?” she asked as her husband came into the room and pulled up a seat at the table.“We’re all fine Mum,” she responded exasperated with her mum’s anxiety. “I have something to tell you.”“Sit down Helen,” her dad snapped. “Give the lass a chance to speak.”Anthea...
My Golden Summer with Blythe – Part 2 Josh’s childhood dream girl visits him in San Francisco. The Return of Blythe Coming from a small farming community, San Francisco proved to be everything Josh had ever imagined – and then some. He loved the freewheeling atmosphere – the friendliness – in short, he fell in love with the city by the Bay. Because of early retirements, and dedication to his work, he had advanced much quicker than he had ever expected. Arriving at his chic little Apartment...
From 'The Autobiography of Miss Louisa Harper' ~ "The summer of 1890 was to be the start of my new life. At fifteen years of age, I was to be presented to society and I had expected that I would then be considered an adult. That, at long last, I would have a say in my own life, my own destiny. That was not to be, though. I was still just a doll to be dressed and used as decoration in the home of my powerful parents. I was made up and dressed and used to impress the visitors who came...
Uther By Ellie Dauber (c) 2006 Introduction According to the legends of King Arthur, Merlin changed Uther Pendragon into a double for Duke Gorlois, so he could spend the night with Ygraine, the Duke's wife. Ygraine and Gorlois had three daughters: Elaine, Morgause, and Morgan le Faye. During their time together, Ygraine became pregnant with the child who was to become King Arthur. Uther's men killed Gorlois that same night. This is my TG (of course) version of what...
Chapter 11: Althea, the School Girl The infernal screeching of the alarm clock awoke Cal from his reverie. He had been up for about a half-hour, but he had only been lying in bed next to the love of his life. Althea's arms were still clutched about him as he stealthily clicked the snooze button, assuming that it was six o' five in the morning, his usual waking time during the school week. He had been thinking long and hard about the previous two nights. Evan... what have you become? He...
edited by Master Ken Wednesday, September 4th, 2013 "Hi, I am Miss Blythe," I said to my class, writing my name on the whiteboard with a red dry-erase marker. "I will be your World History teacher." It was the first day of the new school year and, as I launched into the course syllabus, my thoughts kept drifting to that day in June at the end of the last term, when my Living God, the Holy Mark Glassner, walked into this very classroom and changed my very outlook on life. I didn't know...
The the wind howled around the quayside as I stepped onto terra firma for the first time in weeks, the wind threw sharp shards of ice to sting our faces as we looked up at the sails as they were finally furled and stowed as our captain grinned at our discomfiture, "Au revoir!" he joked as if he knew we should soon be recalled. Those such as were left, and we were few enough, I shuddered. My best uniform packed securely in my Valise, awaited me, and just a few more duties before I...
It was the year 2001. 15-year-old Newt looked at himself in the mirror. He could see some of his mother Laverne’s African American features looking back, but also blue eyes and a lighter skin tone that must have come from his unknown father. He growled, angry. Why didn’t his mom ever tell him who his father was? Her insistence that she didn’t know didn’t make any sense! She said that Newt didn’t look like who she thought his father was, and she hadn’t been with any blue-eyed white boys. His...
As he approached one of the hall's long mirrors he stopped to inspect himself. It was a familiar sight, the flowing, billowy French maid outfit surrounding his body. His arms and legs were outlined in silky, white stockings and arm-gloves. He wore pearl earrings and the lacy white collar around his neck was adorned with a beautiful pendant. It was a gift from mother that he wore every day, without fail. Jon's painted red lips and neatly applied eyeliner and blush were evidence that he was...
PREFACE:There are no sex acts in the story but the patient does have an orgasm as a result of the Ther****t’s physical examination. Part 1 is the Sex Therapy appointment from the patient’s point of view and part 2 is the same examination seen through the eyes of the Ther****t. I don’t think it matters which one you read first.I hope you enjoy it and will let me know what you think in any...
From 'The Autobiography of Miss Louisa Harper' ~ "Langdon Beech-Thorndyke III was 'a catch.' Mother and Father thought that he would be a perfect match for me. He was twenty three and I was fifteen. My parents hoped that we would become betrothed that summer and then a grandiose wedding would follow in three years after I turned eighteen. This was my sister's summer, though. Miranda would be married in August to a Vanderbilt cousin who she barely knew. The opulent affair...
Katherine stepped into her elegant living room and took a book from the shelf. She sat in a plush lounge chair, specifically selecting a chair in the back corner of the room next to an old dumbwaiter that was once used to ferry delicious meals from the downstairs kitchen to the dining room table. She planned to read the book for a short while, but she already knew her attention would soon be diverted. Tonight the dumbwaiter would once again be placed into service, except this time it would be...
Do you know of the porn site Motherless.com? You should. I’ve reviewed it a few times on my site, The Porn Dude, although it was for different genres every time. This time around, I’m going back to this place and looking at a specific and niche little category many of you are just begging me to cover. We’re looking at vintage porn today. While it doesn’t have the same resolution and quality as the porn you can find today, it’s definitely a genre of porn that has a lot of personality to it and...
Vintage Porn SitesI should have known better. I should have remembered that old saying, "If it looks too good to be true, it is." I was in love. She was damned near all I thought about with the exception of my studies and it didn't make sense to me. I prided myself on my intellect and my ability to think logically, but there wasn't anything logical about the way I felt about Althea. She was beautiful, smart and very popular and I was not. I wasn't a bed looking guy, but I was nothing exceptional. I was...
Motherless. A one-word website title that says everything it needs to say. This is a site where the rules are, more or less, completely thrown out the window, morality means absolutely nothing, and there is nobody to save you from it. Hedonism is God here.The site likely is also called this due to the fact that the girls who end up on motherless.com likely have no positive female influence in their lives to keep them from it. Motherless is the place parents spend their whole lives fearing that...
Porn Pictures SitesI always considered Motherless the “4chan” of porn. Not only because Motherless was somewhat popularized there, but because Motherless also encourages users to share their own content in a very open way. This means minimal bullshit like moderation and censorship, and a strong “anything goes” attitude that leads to free and extreme content. It encourages people to create and upload their own homegrown content, like videos of their girlfriend pissing or spycam videos of their cousin....
Amateur Porn SitesWhat is it about Motherless that makes me fucking cum every time? Maybe it is how raw and amateur the porn on the site comes across as, or the content is just that fucking hot. Perhaps it is the fact that there is an astronomical amount of pornography just waiting for a dumb fuck like you to beat off to! I really don’t know, and frankly, I’m not going to pretend that I do.But what I do know is that if you love BBWs, the Motherless.com homepage will not be of much use! Preferably, head on over...
BBW Porn SitesHave you ever heard about a website called Motherless? Home to all kinds of kinky porn niches, with a side of the mainstream crap? If you are into some questionable fap content, you might want to check this website out. Plus, Motherless is a free porn website, so you can browse as much as you fucking want. Now, I am not really here to talk about the website in general… I am here to tell you about their amazing category, called voyeur porn.The world of voyeur fucking is a rather interesting one....
Voyeur Porn SitesClothesline[This story is part of the Leather in Lawnville series.] Clothesline By DuskPetersonYou can tell a lot about a guy from where he shops. Take my friends, who have specialized tastes. Some of them spend their time at the hardware store, while others take an interest in our town's fabric shop, which has needles and pins that make them drool. Still others hang out at the department store, eyeing the cutlery collection. Somehow all of us end up rubbing shoulders at the town's jacket...
The Five Kingdoms of Arstoria had been embroiled in the Great Ancient War for centuries. The war came to an end when Kalace, the Wizard King conquered the five lands and brought them under his rule. Kalace, the Wizard King of Arstoria, conquered all of his opponents who were unable to deal with his overpowering magic. When Kalace had united the five kingdoms, he brought peace to the warring kingdoms and was revered and celebrated by his later generation. Kalace, however, had a dark weakness in...
FantasyWoah, did Motherless.com get a facelift? I know I suggested it in my review, so I guess they listened to me! Well, I’m not going to brag too much about it, and instead, I’m going to focus on what I’ve set out to bring you today. We’re looking at an amateur website, and I just know that many of you are begging for amateur creampie content, so that’s what we’re looking at. I know how much you think Motherless can look sickening and pretty gruesome at times, but the creampie content can be quite...
Creampie Porn SitesNo matter what type of porn you may be in the market for, Motherless has an ample supply of it, and cucking is no different. Actually, this might help to explain how you ended up being such a pussy little cuck.The journey that brought you to my website reading cuck porn reviews started in your childhood. A fair portion of my readership is actually motherless. Why, you ask? Your guys' moms chose a life of cucking and riding cock instead of raising you fucks properly.Don't worry, gents. I'm in...
Cuckold Porn SitesI browsed the horror stash at Motherless all morning, and now I don’t know if I should jack off or go hide in the closet until the danger has passed. Then again, hiding out might give me the perfect opportunity to rub one out in the peace and safety of the dark. Who knows who—or what—might be peeping in the windows with nefarious intent if I sit at my desk and shake my dick at the screen. Just like when I masturbate at the local Starbucks, I’ve got to be sure to balance the potential pleasure...
Extreme Porn WebsitesIncest porn has been a staple of pornography since the very first incel caveman realized that he couldn’t find fresh pussy out and about. He resorted to sniffing a whiff of his mother’s loincloth when she wasn’t looking, and beating his old cave meat into a leather sock.Now personally I’m not into the whole mommy-son dynamic – I’m a classy guy. But it’s no secret people like to get freaky when the lights go out, and if you’ve got a stiffy in your hand and you’re on Motherless, you gotta go...
Incest Porn SitesHi friends, indru tamil kama kathaiyil en sontha thangaiyai epadi oothen endra kudumba tamil kama kathaiyai ungal idam pagirugiren. Vaarungal tamil kama kathaikul selalam, en peyar prathap vayathu 28 aagugirathu. Enaku oru thangi irukiraal aval peyar mala vayathu 26 aagugirathu, avaluku innum thirumanam seiya vilai Avaluku thirumanam seithu vaikum alavirku engal idam ipozhuthu panam ilai, loan apply seithu atharkaaga kathukondu irukirom. Naan oru kama veriyan eppozhuthu pen kidaikum avargalai...
My name is Rebecca. Everyone calls me Becca. I entered the police department right out of college. I progressed rapidly, through different divisions and assignments. I always had my eyes set on Robbery-Homicide and after six years of hard word and dedication, I finally made it. At age thirty, I was youngest female in the division for such a coveted assignment, but I was superb at my job. I made it because of my skill not my gender. It was Saturday. Dispatch called our number just after we had...
TabooThanks to my usual cast and crew of Editors and Advance Readers, most of whom prefer to pretend that they don’t know me and wisely wish to take no responsibility for any part of my addled writings... Il n’est rien de réel que le rêve et l’amour - Nothing is real but dreams and love (from Le Coeur innombrable, IV, Chanson du temps opportun by Anna de Noailles) She was my one true mistress and ever faithful lover, my Green Lady and guardian of my dreams and now that I was back home...